Birds · 20th century
€ 220
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
General age-related toning. Small crease lower left corner. Blank verso. Please study image carefully.
The image is of an antique bird print titled 'Phylloscopus Sibilatrix', which is often confused with the common chiffchaff but is actually depicting a Wood Warbler. The bird is perched on a branch, depicted in a detailed and naturalistic manner.
The Wood Warbler is illustrated with a delicate blending of yellows and greens across its plumage, capturing the subtle variations that would be seen in the bird in its natural environment. Its underparts are a lighter shade, which provides a beautiful contrast to the more vivid greens of its upper body. The detail in the wings and the tail feathers is meticulous, with each feather carefully outlined to show its structure and pattern.
Magnus von Wright's signature, evident in the bottom right, attributes the work to his hand. The use of shadow and light gives the bird a three-dimensional appearance, suggesting volume and form. The leaves on the branch are also finely detailed, showing von Wright’s ability to capture the intricate details of the bird's habitat.
This print from 'Svenska Foglar Efter Naturen Och Pa Stenritade' not only serves as an ornithological record but also as an example of the artistic craftsmanship of the 19th century. The term "Grönsångare" refers to the bird's Swedish name, which translates to "Green Singer," likely a nod to the bird's melodious song and the greenish tinge of its plumage.
